March 7, 2023
Dear FUMC friends,
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved member, Carl Walker Jr. We are deeply saddened by his loss. His contributions to our congregation will always be remembered. Carl will be greatly missed, and we extend our heartfelt sympathy and condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time. Please keep his loved ones in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate through this loss. May God's love and comfort be with them.
H. Carl Jr. 12/22/1935 2/4/2023 Kalamazoo, MI Carl Walker, 87, died Saturday, February 4 at StoryPoint in Saline, MI. Carl led a full and accomplished life. He was born in Hinton, West Virginia, one of four brothers, and after spending his formative years moving around as an 'army brat', his family settled in Duluth, Minnesota, where his father instilled in him a love for the outdoors. Shortly after receiving his master's degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Michigan, Carl became a lifelong resident of Kalamazoo, where he started two successful engineering firms, and became a recognized expert in the fields of prestressed concrete and parking consulting. He was substantively involved in several civic organizations, including the Rotary Club, Habitat for Humanity, and the United Methodist Church. Carl also funded scholarships at the University of Michigan and Western Michigan University. Carl became a private pilot, first to support his business, and later to assist humanitarian causes including flying for a Methodist mission in Liberia, as well as Wings of Mercy in the U.S. Flying was a lifelong passion and a continuous source of joy for Carl he logged over 7,000 hours in the air. Carl will be remembered by family and friends for his impressive work ethic and mentorship, as well as his desire for action and adventure - whether it be skiing in Colorado, canoeing in the Boundary Waters of Minnesota, camping trips to the Western U.S., University of Michigan football games, or international trips with his wife Dorothy. Most of all, Carl's legacy will live on with his children through his establishing the family cottage in Leelanau County, which has been a cherished place of summer pilgrimage for over 50 years. In addition to Dorothy, Carl leaves behind his children Liz Rogers of Wellesley MA, Dave Walker (Maribeth Malecki) of Highlands Ranch CO, Carol Wellbaum (Lance) of Edwards CO, and Bill Walker (Mary) of Arvada CO; his stepchildren Blake Zuidema of Farmington Hills MI, and Jan Koopman (Ken) of Dexter MI; his grandchildren Abby Rogers, Caroline Rogers, Graham Walker, Jackson Walker, Shannon Walker, Phoenix Wellbaum, Addison Walker and Grant Walker; his step grandchildren Michael Zuidema, David Zuidema and Christine Smith (Taylor); his brothers Ray Walker, Robin Walker and Sam Walker; as well as several nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at 1pm on Monday, April 24 at the First United Methodist Church, 212 South Park Street, Kalamazoo, with a reception following. All friends are welcome. In lieu of flowers, donations in Carl's memory may be made to the Leelanau Conservancy (leelanauconservancy.org/donate), Wings of Mercy (wingsofmercy.org/donate), the University of Michigan College of Engineering (https://donate.umich.edu/1wwwq), or a charity of your choice.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
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